Alli Torf (she/they) is currently receiving her Masters in Music Education from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, Illinois. Her coursework focuses on Jazz Studies, and her research focuses on dismantling systemic issues in secondary band education in America. She earned her Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in December 2021, studying French horn with Professor Bernhard Scully and performing in the university’s premiere ensembles. During her time at UIUC, she was a founding member of the APBC Brass Quintet and served on the School of Music’s curriculum equity committee. Outside of the Jazzschool, Alli was previously a Middle and High School Director of Bands, including Concert Bands, Jazz Big Bands, Jazz Combos, Marching Band – where she introduced competitive field shows to the program — and Pep Band. In January 2026, Alli was a presenter at the Illinois Music Education Conference, encouraging educators to bring a dynamic, creative, and inclusive approach to ensemble music-making.